Southampton set to see off Liverpool in battle to land Championship star

onJanuary 2, 2013

Relegation threatened Southampton are in pole position to sign Birmingham goalkeeper Jack Butland as the Championship club are in the midst of financial turmoil, and the Sun has reported that the Saints could beat the likes of Liverpool and Everton to the signature of the player.

Butland became the youngest goalkeeper to represent England at the international level when he played in a friendly against Italy and also featured for Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics. He has been tipped to take over the gloves from current England No.1 Joe Hart for England and is linked with a move to the Premier League in January, with Liverpool and Everton showing interest.

Birmingham are facing money troubles after their largest shareholder Carson Yeung was arrested on money-laundering charges forcing them to raise cash by selling players. Birmingham have admitted to interest from Liverpool who seek Butland as cover for Pepe Reina but reports suggest that the youngster might turn down the move as he is not likely to get any playing time at the club.

The Saints have emerged as the new favorites to land Butland as they prepare to bid again after failing to secure the player’s signature in the summer. Manchester City have also expressed their interest in the England U21 goalkeeper but Butland would again turn down the opportunity to be Hart’s understudy.